ZZ Top Drummer Frank Beard Dies at 77
Frank Beard, the drummer for the rock band ZZ Top, has passed away at the age of 77. Beard was a key member of the band for six decades and played a crucial role in their success.
Frank Beard, the drummer for the rock band ZZ Top, has died at the age of 77.
A spokesperson for the band confirmed that Beard died on 17 August in hospice care at his ranch in Richmond, Texas. His family were by his side.
## A Legacy of Rock Music
ZZ Top singer Billy Gibbons has paid tribute to his friend and collaborator, describing him as "one of the most naturally innovative drummers" and a "great and true son of Texas." Gibbons also acknowledged Beard's signature backbeat, which was key to keeping the band at the top of their game.
Beard's death comes after the band cancelled several shows due to his health. ZZ Top will no longer play their Tuesday concert in Salt Lake City or Wednesday in Colorado Springs.
## A Long and Eventful Career
Beard joined ZZ Top in 1971, although he was not a founding member. However, he quickly became the band's definitive drummer among fans, thanks to his propulsive percussion on hits such as La Grange, Tush, and Legs. The band became rock heavyweights in the late 70s, but Beard's struggles with drug addiction led to a hiatus. After getting sober, he toured with the band for decades.
Beard faced other health problems over the years, including an emergency appendectomy in 2002, which caused him to miss some shows. Last year, he stepped away from the band due to undisclosed health issues.
## A Humble Attitude
In public, Beard consistently adopted a humble attitude towards his success. When ZZ Top were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004, he said: "All I have to say is that most of my life has been a pleasant surprise, and so is this. Thank you."
## A New Era for ZZ Top
After the death of bassist Dusty Hill in 2021, Elwood Francis joined the band as bass player. With Beard's passing, the band will continue to keep on keeping on, as he had wished.
